• Age: 3 to 7
• Grade: p to 2

A sweet, fun, and informative picture book about bat echolocation for kids 3-7. Written by a scientist who works with bats in his everyday life!

It's time for Fiona the fruit bat to take her very first flight, but she's scared. How will she fly when she can't see in the dark? Mama just says, "listen." But how will listening help her to see? Then she hears a mysterious sound from deep in her cave. To find out what's making that noise—and to finally fly—Fiona will have to unlock a secret hidden inside herself.

Written by biologist and bestselling author Dan Riskin, and rooted in the real-life biology of short-tailed fruit bats, this adorable story features:

• The fascinating science behind echolocation, including backmatter pages with information on fruit bats from the author.
• A comforting message to help kids scared of the dark: Alongside Fiona, they'll learn there's nothing to be scared of!
• A celebration of self-confidence and independence: Shows readers the amazing things they can accomplish all on their own.

Accompanied by delightful illustrations from Rachel Qiuqi, Fiona the Fruit Bat is a touching tale about overcoming the fear of new experiences and finding the courage to listen to your own voice.

Dan Riskin is an evolutionary biologist and passionate ambassador of science to popular audiences. Since 2011, Riskin has cohosted the world’s only hour-long daily science show, Daily Planet, on Discovery Canada. He is also the host of Animal Planet’s wildly successful show Monsters Inside Me, about parasites. He lives in Toronto.

Dan Riskin's profile page

Rachel Qiuqi is an illustrator and designer who spent six years studying animation before focusing on illustration for children. Her books include What’s Growing in Mommy’s Tummy? and We Are Earthlings. She is based in Canada.

Rachel Qiuqi's profile page

"A worthy purchase where bat collections are looking for a refresh."
—School Library Journal

"For kids who love stories about animals, this book truly delivers story and understanding."
—Youth Services Book Review

"Bats are so much more than Halloween symbols, as environmental biologist Dan Riskin makes clear…... Riskin interweaves intriguing facts about fruit bats and an easy-to-understand explanation of echolocation into an engaging tale... inspires youngsters to a greater curiosity and understanding about bats."
—Washington Parent

"Mesmerizing."
—Imagination Soup

Praise for Mother Nature is Trying to Kill You written by Dan Riskin

A Globe & Mail Bestseller and a Toronto Star Bestseller.

Featured in a one-hour special for the Canadian Discovery Channel.

"A fact-filled and amusing trek through nature's dark side that adroitly combines learning and the yuck factor."
—Kirkus Reviews